High Path Avian Influenza (H7N3) detected in South Carolina

[John W Blehm]

 

High Path Avian Influenza (H7N3) detected in South Carolina
 
On April 9, 2020 the USDA-APHIS confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic H7N3 avian influenza (HPAI) in a commercial turkey flock in Chesterfield County, South Carolina.  Close to 5 % mortality was reported in the 34,160-bird flock which has been depopulated. The premises has an epidemiological link to another South Carolina premises infected as part of an ongoing Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI) H7N3 outbreak. This link suggests a mutation of the virus strain has occurred. (see below) HPAI was last detected in the U.S. in 2017.
 
The most likely source of the LPAI is migratory waterfowl with inter-farm spread from possible defects in biosecurity. The Atlantic flyway extends from Georgia along east coast and over to southern Ontario and Quebec.  This high path AI virus strain caused a large outbreak in BC 2004, a case in Sask. 2007 as well as the outbreak in Mexico 2012-2018.
 
There is an increased risk of AI infection to poultry flocks during spring wild bird migrations. AI can be brought into a barn by breaches in biosecurity. It is most often spread by movement of infected birds, contaminated equipment or people. Farmers should continue to be very diligent in observing their flocks, monitoring mortalities and tracking feed and water consumption.  If you suspect any signs of health concerns in your flock, please contact your veterinarian and board immediately or call SOS-BYRD.
 
Chronology of ongoing LPAI outbreak in North and South Carolina
•   March 13 - As part of routine surveillance for H5/H7 Avian Influenza, H7N3 low pathogenic AI (LPAI) was detected in a turkey parent and 2 grow-out flocks in Union and Anson counties, North Carolina.
•   March 24 to April 6 - LPAI H7N3 identified at 3 premises in North Carolina and 1 premises in South Carolina. H7 LPAI was subsequently confirmed in 1 commercial turkey breeder and 4 other turkey meat flocks in North Carolina. All 12 flocks (310,269 birds) have been destroyed and disposal is ongoing

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